Burj Khalifa Projection Open Call 2026 is now accepting submissions, giving artists and digital creators from around the world the opportunity to see their work displayed on the world’s tallest building. Organised by Emaar, the annual competition transforms the Burj Khalifa’s iconic façade into a large-scale digital canvas, celebrating creativity and innovation through immersive projection art.
Submissions opened on July 8, 2026, and creators have until August 18, 2026, at 11:59 pm Dubai time to submit their entries. The competition is open to individuals, creative studios, animators, and digital artists from the UAE and across the globe.
Who can apply, and what needs to be submitted
Participants are invited to create an original three-minute audio-visual projection inspired by Dubai’s spirit of innovation, creativity, and ambition. The final design should reflect the city’s forward-looking vision while delivering an engaging visual experience suitable for projection across the Burj Khalifa.
All visual content and accompanying music must be completely original and free from copyright restrictions. Emaar has also outlined several content rules. Entries must not include AI-generated material, images of real people, commercial logos, advertisements, or content that conflicts with the UAE’s cultural values.
To enter, applicants must email their submission to opencall@emaar.ae. Each application should include an MP4 preview video, a separate high-resolution MOV production file prepared in accordance with Emaar’s technical specifications, and a concept statement of no more than 300 words explaining the inspiration and creative vision behind the project.
Important dates and what selected artists can expect
The submission deadline is August 18, 2026, after which entries will be reviewed in accordance with the competition guidelines. Artists are encouraged to carefully follow the required technical templates and production specifications before submitting their work.
Rather than offering a traditional cash prize, the competition provides selected creators with an exceptional platform to showcase their work on one of the world’s most recognisable landmarks. A projection on the Burj Khalifa offers international visibility, with millions of residents and visitors seeing the display each year.
Creators interested in participating should review the full submission guidelines, technical canvas requirements, and entry instructions available on Emaar’s official Burj Khalifa Projection Open Call portal before preparing their final files. For digital artists seeking global exposure, this year’s competition offers a unique opportunity to showcase their creativity on an iconic stage.
